Every year, a rhythm repeats itself.

In November, I putz around in the foothills and hike into the mixed weather and raw conditions.

By mid-December, the first flakes of snow hit.

A smile lights up on my face.

I wax up my skis or break out the skins, throw on my favorite pair of wool ski pants, fill up a thermos with a favorite  hot drink and grab my boots.

The first swish the powder is exhilarating. I again rejoice in gliding along a backcountry trail.

It is ski season again. And I am happy!

Every weekend is a new place to explore or an old favorite to enjoy.

By late March though, things start to wind down. The snow is a tad bit warmer. The snow sticks more.

By April, the last skis are done (with the occasional late Spring ski) and I am again getting ready for hiking season.

Continue reading Skiing into Spring at PMags.com.